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Nestled in between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is a small country jam-packed with an array of biological diversity. According to Fodor’s, nearly 15 percent of the country is a national park and reserve. The country's unique landscape, from the cool mountains to the massive volcanoes to the miles of palm tree-lined beaches, makes Costa Rica an appealing destination for travelers.

Step 1

Plan a budget. Although less expensive than traveling in the United States, vacationing in Costa Rica is significantly more expensive than other Central American countries, according to Lonely Planet. The country caters to a wide variety of visitors from shoe-string budget backpackers staying in guesthouse dorms and taking public transportation to top-end vacationers staying in luxurious resorts and flying within the country.

Step 2

Decide when to go. Costa Rica has two distinct seasons: dry and wet. The dry season with its abundant amount of sunny days runs from mid-December to mid-April. Prices typically increase during this high season and advance reservations are required. The “green season,” otherwise known as the wet season from May to November, is when rivers begin to swell and roads become muddy. However, the country is less crowded and accommodation rates drop, making it an alternative option for vacationers on a budget.

Step 3

Create an activity itinerary. Many visitors travel to Costa Rica to experience the stunning environment whether it is hiking through the rainforests of Parque Nacional Corcovado, watching the turtles hatch in Tortuguero or surfing the waves of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Step 4

Purchase a guide book. The Rough Guide and Lonely Planet are two travel guide books that emphasize budget traveling. Both include extensive information and tips on traveling inexpensively. In addition, they both have a “language” section in the back with important Spanish words and phrases. Fodor’s is another popular travel book that also lists pricier accommodations and meal options.

Tips

Frommer’s Costa Rica highly recommends staying in moderately priced hotels for comfort and small B&Bs for character; however, motels should be avoided as they are typically rented by the hour.

Late June to October is the best travel season for surfers heading toward the Pacific Coast, whereas the Caribbean side has better and consistent breaks from November to May.

Many hotels in Costa Rica give discounts to children. Check directly with hotels to ensure the correct discounts and cut-off age.

Warning

Beach towns are busy with local Costa Ricans during the months of December to February when schools are closed for the holidays. Additionally, accommodations during Semana Santa (Holy Week), the week of Easter, are booked months in advance.

References

"The Rough Guide to: Central America"; Jamey Bergman; February 2009

"Fodor's Central America"; Felice Aarons; 2006

"Frommer's Costa Rica 2010"; Eliot Greenspan; December 2009

Resources

About the Author

LH Lee spent two years backpacking from 2007 to 2009. Since her return in 2009, she has contributed various travel articles to Off Track Planet and Matador. Lee holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in screenwriting from the School of Visual Arts and is a recipient of The Media Workshop from UCLA.

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.